Moroccans lead with 22.5% of Spain's naturalizations in 2023

Spain recorded a record number of naturalizations in 2023, with 240,208 individuals acquiring Spanish citizenship, according to data published by the National Statistics Institute (INE) on Friday.

This figure represents a significant 32.3% increase compared to 2022 and marks the highest level since the INE began tracking these statistics in 2013 as reported by Spanish newspaper ABC.

Moroccans constitute the largest group among new Spanish citizens, accounting for 22.5% of all naturalizations. Following them are Venezuelans (12.6%), Colombians (7.8%), Ecuadorians (4.7%), and Hondurans (4.7%). Interestingly, 21.2% of those who acquired Spanish nationality were already residents in Spain, while 78.8% came from abroad.

Over the past nine years, the number of Moroccans obtaining Spanish citizenship has fluctuated. There were marked increases in 2022 (55,463) and 2023 (54,027), contrasting with lower figures in previous years. The lowest point was recorded in 2020 with only 27,027 naturalizations. These fluctuations can likely be attributed to changes in Spanish migration policies, as well as socio-economic and health conditions (including the impact of COVID-19) influencing the decision of Moroccans to pursue naturalization.

Women make up the majority of naturalized immigrants, with 54.8% compared to 45.2% men. The most common age groups among new citizens are 30-39 and 40-49.

Catalonia stands out as the region with the highest number of naturalizations, surpassing 60,000 cases.